Candidate Profiles

Nominating as a Candidate

Nominations for the 2017 local government elections will open on Thursday, 7 September 2017 and close on Thursday, 14 September 2017 at 4.00pm.

Anyone enrolled as a resident or as a non-resident owner or occupier (apart from the nominee of a body corporate) of rateable property within the Shire of Gingin is eligible to nominate as a candidate.

All nominations will need to be lodged with the WAEC-appointed Returning Officer.

Below is a link to WALGA produced information for prospective elected members, including a video webinar:

Contacting the Returning Officer

Mr George Gifford has been appointed by the WAEC as Returning Officer for the 2017 Shire of Gingin local government elections. Please click HERE for contact details.

Disclosure of Electoral Gifts

Candidates in local government elections must be aware of their legislative obligations in relation to the disclosure of gifts leading up to the local government elections. Part 5A of the Local Government (Elections) Regulations 1997 requires both candidates and donors to make disclosure in regard to gifts given to candidates during the specified disclosure period (the six month period before Election Day, commencing 21 April 2017).

What is an Electoral Gift?

A “gift” means a disposition of property, or the conferral of any financial benefit, made by one person in favour of another. It can include a gift of money, a gift which is non-monetary but of value, a gift in kind or where there is inadequate financial consideration such as the receipt of a discount (where the difference or the discount is worth more than $200).

A “gift” could also include a financial or other contribution to travel, the provision of a service for no consideration or for inadequate consideration, and a firm promise or agreement to give a gift at some future time. A “gift” does not include a gift by will, a gift from a relative, a gift that does not relate to the candidate’s candidature, or the provision of volunteer labour.

When do Electoral Gifts Need to be Disclosed?

The prescribed disclosure period for electoral gifts begins six months before Election Day and ends three days after Election Day (for unsuccessful candidates) and on the start day for financial interest returns for successful candidates.

Within three days of nomination, any candidate in the 2017 local government election must disclose any gifts fitting the definition of “electoral gifts” that have been received since 21 April 2017, and any further gifts received after nomination must be disclosed within three days of acceptance.

Who is Required to Make an Electoral Gift Disclosure?

Both the candidate and the gift giver must make a separate disclosure. Candidates have an obligation to ensure that the giver of any electoral gift accepted by them is aware of disclosure requirements.

How are Disclosures Made?

Electoral gifts must be disclosed using the prescribed form and submitted to the Chief Executive Officer of the Shire of Gingin.

The Chief Executive Officer is required to maintain a register of electoral gifts, which must be available for public scrutiny.